Social Policy (Hons) with Placement Year
The Social Policy (Hons) with Placement Year program at the University of Bath is a four-year, full-time Bachelor of Science degree that examines the design and impact of social policies on society. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding how policies are formulated and implemented, and how they shape social welfare, healthcare, housing, and education systems. Students will study the causes and consequences of social inequality, poverty, and discrimination, and will learn how social policies can address these challenges.
The program includes a placement year, where students can gain real-world experience in social research, policy-making, or working with public sector organizations. Graduates will be equipped to work in roles such as social policy analysts, public sector administrators, or in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), where they can contribute to improving social systems and promoting equity and justice.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Social Policy (Hons) with Placement Year
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Duration: 4 years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Location: University of Bath, United Kingdom
Field of Study: Social Policy
Application Deadline: 14th January 2026
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Social Policy
· Introduction to Social Policy
· Social Theory and Policy Development
· Research Methods in Social Sciences
· Politics and Government
· Social Inequality and Justice
Year 2 – Intermediate Social Policy and Analysis
· Public Policy and Governance
· Global Social Policy
· Policy Analysis and Evaluation
· Sociology of Welfare
· Social Policy and Economic Development
Year 3 – Placement Year
· Practical experience in a relevant social policy setting
· Development of industry-specific skills and knowledge
· Application of academic learning to real-world challenges in social policy
Year 4 – Advanced Social Policy and Research
· Comparative Social Policy
· Advanced Research Methods in Social Policy
· Social Policy and Health
· Social Policy and Education
· Independent Research Project in Social Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Social Policy (Hons) with Placement Year program are well-prepared for careers in a wide range of public, private, and non-profit organizations. Career opportunities include roles such as social policy analyst, public sector researcher, welfare officer, and policy advisor. The inclusion of a placement year enhances employability by providing students with practical, hands-on experience. Graduates can work in government agencies, think tanks, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and research institutions, where they can influence the design and implementation of policies that address social issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Bath’s Social Policy (Hons) with Placement Year program offers a comprehensive understanding of the social issues that shape policy development at local, national, and global levels. The program combines academic theory with real-world experience, particularly through the placement year, which provides students with invaluable insights into the policy-making process. Key advantages include the opportunity to conduct independent research, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in policy discussions with experts in the field. The University’s strong focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of social policy ensures that graduates are well-equipped to address the complex challenges of modern society.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1225 388388
Email: admissions@bath.ac.uk
Address: University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
